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The Connection Between Anxiety and Migraines

Anxiety has been explained as “an unpleasant emotional state or condition characterized by feelings of tension, apprehension, and worry.” While fleeting anxiety is unavoidable, it is atypical for an individual to experience frequent, intense, debilitating, persistent worries and/ or fears related to everyday situations, and such anxiety could be indicative of an anxiety disorder. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) asserts: “anxiety disorders are a group of related conditions, each having unique symptoms. However, all anxiety disorders have one thing in common: persistent, excessive fear or worry in situations that are not threatening.” The results of a 2021 systematic review revealed that there is a strong and consistent relationship between migraine and anxiety.

Migraine is defined as a “chronic, disabling neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of headache.” Migraine and anxiety share a bidirectional relationship, meaning anxiety increases the risk of migraine and vice versa. Statistics show that approximately 20% of people living with episodic migraine (less than 14 migraine attacks per month) and 30 to 50% of people living with chronic migraine (15 migraine attacks or more per month) also experience anxiety. Psych Central and other sources highlight some of the ways in which these two conditions interconnect:

Both migraines and anxiety disorders involve central sensitization, where the nervous system becomes hypersensitive to stimuli. This can lead to increased pain perception and heightened emotional responses.
In 2017, a systematic review found that excessive worry and tension likely play a role in migraine episodes, as anxiety and stress are recognized as factors that can contribute to migraine episodes.
Stress hormones, such as cortisol, is known to cause several vascular changes in the brain, which could lead to inflammation and head pain. Additionally, emotional states related to stress and anxiety may also induce muscular tension, which could, in turn, exacerbate a migraine episode.
Individuals who experience frequent migraines may develop anticipatory anxiety, fearing the onset of the next migraine attack. This anxiety can lead to a constant state of tension and stress.
Both anxiety disorders and migraines involve abnormal brain activity and neurotransmitter imbalances, suggesting shared neurological pathways.
There is evidence to suggest a genetic predisposition to both migraines and anxiety disorders. Certain genetic factors might contribute to the co-occurrence of these conditions in some individuals.
A recent review of anxiety-migraine comorbidity noted that migraine attacks often improve when symptoms of anxiety are treated.

Understanding and addressing the interplay between anxiety and migraines is crucial for effective management. Individuals experiencing both conditions should seek comprehensive evaluation and treatment from qualified healthcare professionals to develop a personalized plan that is directly informed by one’s nuanced needs. A holistic approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of these conditions can significantly improve the overall well-being of affected individuals.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

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The Impact of Anxiety on Your Social Life

Anxiety is a natural and adaptive emotion. It is defined as an “overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physical signs (such as tension, sweating, and increased pulse rate), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one’s capacity to cope with it.” While mild anxiety is a normal part of life, excessive or chronic anxiety can have a profound impact on one’s social life, affecting various aspects of social interactions and relationships. Some of the ways in which anxiety may influence one’s social life could include any combination of the following, provided by the Mayo Clinic:

Social withdrawal: Individuals with anxiety may isolate themselves to avoid the perceived stress of social interactions which can result in the avoidance of social situations and/ or people.
Decreased social activities: Anxiety can lead to a reduction in social activities, hobbies, and/ or outings, limiting opportunities for social interactions.
Difficulty speaking: Some individuals may experience a shaky voice or difficulty speaking clearly during social interactions due to anxiety.
Difficulty starting conversations: Anxiety can make it challenging to initiate conversations, especially with new people.
Strained relationships: Anxiety can strain relationships, as constant worry can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Further, fear of being judged or evaluated negatively can hinder open communication, leading to strained interactions.
Difficulty focusing: Constant worry or anxiety can make it difficult to concentrate during social interactions. Distracted thinking makes it very hard to listen and hold a conversation, which results in an impaired ability to communicate.
Overthinking conversations: People with anxiety may excessively ruminate about social interactions, analyzing every word and/ or gesture, which can lead to further anxiety and self-doubt.
Low self-esteem: Anxiety can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, making individuals believe they are unworthy of meaningful social connection.

Anxiety plays an important role in social behavior. Nevertheless, it is essential to bear in mind that although anxiety can have significant effects on social life, it is a treatable condition. With the proper support individuals can learn to manage their symptoms effectively, improve their social interactions, develop, and maintain meaningful relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life.

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The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation for BPD

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, mental health disorder. It is a complex psychological condition that is characterized by “a pervasive pattern of instability and hypersensitivity in interpersonal relationships, instability in self-image, extreme mood fluctuations, and impulsivity. Individuals with borderline personality disorder often struggle with relationship issues, lack self-esteem, have a poor self-image, and have an inability to appropriately self-regulate.” The symptoms associated with borderline personality disorder can hinder one’s ability to function optimally in daily life. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) estimates that 1.4% of the adult population in America experience BPD. The treatment for BPD often includes long-term participation in one or more psychodynamic models of psychotherapy.

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation is a explained as a type of “meditation which involves paying attention to the present moment, deliberately and nonjudgmentally.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) further describes mindfulness mediation as “welcoming each moment and experience with curiosity and openness, without automatic attachment to what is pleasant, aversion to what is unpleasant or indifference to what is neutral.” Mindfulness meditation can offer several benefits for individuals with BPD, such as:

Increased emotional awareness: Mindfulness meditation facilitates recognizing emotions as they arise, which can promote emotional regulation and reduce impulsive reactions.
Improved distress tolerance: Mindfulness meditation bolsters an individual’s ability to tolerate distressing emotions and sensations without judgment. This acceptance can reduce the urge to engage in self-destructive behaviors during moments of distress.
Enriched interpersonal relationships: Mindfulness meditation fosters empathy and compassion, allowing individuals with BPD to better understand others’ perspectives and respond to them with kindness, enhancing the quality of their relationships.
Reduced physical symptoms: Mindfulness meditation has been associated with reduced physical symptoms related to stress, such as muscle tension and headaches, improving overall well-being.
Reduced identity disturbance: BPD often involves identity disturbance. Mindfulness meditation can help individuals clarify their self-identity by fostering a sense of continuity and stability in self-perception.
Enhanced decision-making: Mindfulness meditation can increase mental clarity and focus, which can help individuals with BPD become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to recognize impulsive urges and choose healthier responses.

It is important to note that although mindfulness meditation is not a cure for BPD, it can be a helpful component of a comprehensive treatment plan.

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The Connection Between Anxiety and Heart Health

Anxiety is characterized “by an unpleasant state of inner turmoil and includes feelings of dread over anticipated events.” It the body’s normal biological and psychological response to stress. However, chronic anxiety can negatively impact your heart health, and vice-versa. According to the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center there is a clear link between long-term anxiety and the onset and progression of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Anxiety prompts the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, that act on the same parts of the brain that regulate cardiovascular functions. Studies suggest that the high levels of cortisol from long-term stress can trigger common risk factors for heart disease such as increased blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and blood pressure. Prolonged anxiety can alter one’s stress response, causing inflammation in the body, which can damage the linings of the artery and can lead to a build-up of coronary plaque. Individuals with high levels of anxiety are at increased risk of coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, stroke, fatal ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Research has found that “the relationships between anxiety disorders and cardiac outcomes likely are mediated by both behavioral and physiologic mechanisms, including autonomic dysfunction, inflammation, and platelet aggregation.” Anxiety is associated with the following heart disorders and cardiac risk factors:

Rapid heart rate (tachycardia): Prolonged anxiety can interfere with one’s normal heart function and increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Increased blood pressure: Chronic anxiety can cause coronary disease or heart failure and weaken the muscle.
Decreases heart rate variability: Chronic anxiety may lead to a higher incidence of death after an acute heart attack.

Anxiety can act as an obstacle for those recovering from heart disease. People with heart disease, for example, are twice as likely to have heart attacks when they also have anxiety. Additionally, anxiety following a major cardiac event can impede recovery and is associated with a higher morbidity and mortality. The relationship between anxiety and heart health is complex and bidirectional, meaning that anxiety can impact heart health, and heart health can also influence anxiety levels.

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The Role of Art Therapy in Eating Disorder Recovery

Eating disorders are neurological disorders that are loosely characterized by abnormal, irregular eating habits, and an extreme concern with one’s body weight or shape. There are several different types of eating disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and each is categorized under the Disorder Class: Feeding and Eating Disorders. Although eating disorders are life-long conditions, with proper treatment and support, an individual can learn to effectively manage its symptoms. The goal of treatment for an individual diagnosed with an eating disorder is to help them find a healthy and sustainable relationship with food. Creative expression can be an effective way to foster mental health and well-being. Hence, art therapy plays a valuable role in the recovery process for individuals dealing with eating disorders.

The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as “an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.” It is a form of experiential therapy that is facilitated by art therapists who are trained mental health clinicians that are educated in human development, clinical practice, psychological theories, and fine art. Art therapy offers a unique and effective approach to addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of eating disorders:

Art therapy provides an arena for individuals to explore self-expression, emotions, and eating disorder related challenges that may otherwise be abandoned through various art media (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpting, etc.) rather than solely relying on verbal articulation.
Eating disorders are often driven by emotional triggers, and studies show that art therapy can help people learn how to identify, access, and effectively manage their emotions.
Art therapy is a highly adaptable framework that affords clinicians with the flexibility to provide each individual with a personalized therapeutic experience that is directly reflective of their nuanced needs and eating disorder treatment goals.
People with eating disorders often have distorted body image perceptions. Art therapy allows them to externalize and visually represent their perceptions of their bodies. Creating art can help them gain insight into their body image concerns and challenge distorted beliefs that contribute to their disordered eating habits.
Through art therapy, individuals can explore and develop a more positive relationship with their bodies. This process can lead to greater body acceptance and self-compassion.

Art therapy sessions can be conducted in an individual or group setting. While it can be used on its own or in conjunction with other treatment modalities, art therapy is often integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan for eating disorder recovery, alongside medical, nutritional, and psychological interventions. Art therapy provides a safe and creative space for exploration, expression, and healing, ultimately supporting one’s journey toward improved mental health and recovery.

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The Connection Between Anxiety and ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), previously referred to as attention deficit disorder (ADD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, neurobiological disorder. ADHD is characterized by “a persistent pattern of inattention and/ or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.” Although ADHD is one of the most studied conditions in America, the precise cause for developing ADHD remains unknown. Research has, however, indicated that genetic factors, environmental factors, and developmental delays may all contribute to its potential development. ADHD is extremely common, and the worldwide prevalence of ADHD is estimated to be around 2.2% in children and 2.8% in adults. The Mayo Clinic provides the following examples of some of the common symptoms that an individual with ADHD could exhibit:

Inattention to detail.
Unable to engage in activities that require prolonged attention.
Failure to meet deadlines.
Mind constantly wandering/ does not listen when directly spoken to.
Organizational difficulties.
Misplaces belongings frequently.
Easily distractible.
Excessive talking.
Regularly and mindlessly fidgeting.
Restlessness.
Little or no patience.

Symptoms will often range in severity and can differ depending on a variety of contributing factors. ADHD and anxiety share a complicated relationship, as many individuals with ADHD also experience symptoms of anxiety, and vice versa.

Anxiety is the body’s natural response to stress. As is defined in the Oxford English Dictionary, anxiety is “a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.” While fleeting anxiety is unavoidable, it is atypical to experience persistent and debilitating symptoms of anxiety. An individual may be struggling with an anxiety disorder when pervasive anxiety interferes with his or her ability to function in daily life. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine anxiety disorders affect up to 18% of the population. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) asserts: “Anxiety disorders are a group of related conditions, each having unique symptoms. However, all anxiety disorders have one thing in common: persistent, excessive fear or worry in situations that are not threatening.” There are a variety of signs and symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. Akin to symptoms of ADHD, the symptoms associated with an anxiety disorder can present in any combination with varying levels of severity. In America, nearly two-thirds of those living with ADHD have at least one coexisting condition, and approximately 25% of them have a diagnosable anxiety disorder.

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The Impact of Anxiety on Your Career

Anxiety is defined as an “uncontrollable, diffuse, unpleasant, and persistent state of negative affect, characterized by apprehensive anticipation regarding unpredictable and unavoidable future danger, and accompanied by physiological symptoms of tension and a constant state of heightened vigilance.” It is a complex response to real or perceived threats that can involve cognitive, physical, and behavioral changes. Anxiety is an unavoidable feeling that every human will undoubtedly experience at various points throughout one’s life, as it is the body’s natural response to stress. Still, anxiety can have a significant impact on your career in various ways:

Absenteeism: Prolonged stress and anxiety can alter protective immune responses, increasing one’s susceptibility to infections, such as colds, the flu, and other viral and bacterial disease, which can lead to excessive absences from work.

Decreased work performance: Research from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) found that fifty-five percent of employees surveyed said they experienced anxiety about deadlines, which may contribute to missing them altogether. Further, anxiety causes the hippocampus to shrink. The hippocampus (area of the brain associated with learning and memory) connects to the amygdala, and together they control emotional memory recalling and regulation. This can interfere with your ability to remain on task.

Hinder your workplace relationships: Anxiety can cause you to avoid social situations, and at work this may manifest as skipping a meeting or avoiding conferences and large gatherings. In fact, according to the AADA, 73 percent of those with anxiety admit to avoiding social situations. Communication difficulties, social withdrawal, and a reluctance to engage in networking or teamwork can thwart your professional growth.
Erodes your earning potential: In attempt to mitigate undue stress, it is highly common for people with anxiety to avoid seeking a promotion, trying for a higher paying job, taking classes, or changing careers.

The AADA conducted a survey that revealed that, among those who have anxiety, more than half said it affected their work performance and 50 percent felt it had a direct impact on the quality of their work. Another 43 percent said they felt stress and anxiety had a strong impact on their relationship with their superiors. While some level of stress and anxiety is normal in the workplace, excessive or chronic anxiety can negatively affect your job performance, career advancement, and overall well-being.

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The Role of Spirituality in Mental Health

The World Health Organization (WHO) explains mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” There are a variety of factors that can affect one’s mental health. Spirituality, for example, can have a profound impact on one’s mental health and well-being. Spirituality, according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, “involves the recognition of a feeling or sense or belief that there is something greater than [oneself], something more to being human than sensory experience, and that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in nature.” Although the notion of spirituality is globally acknowledged, there is no clear consensus about its definition among health researchers. Spirituality is a broad and complex concept which varies its understanding according to different cultural, religious, and academic backgrounds. Nevertheless, a robust body of evidence-based studies underscore the role of spirituality in mental health.

Extensive research indicates that spirituality is important in treating psychological conditions. According to a review published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, “Lack of spirituality can interfere with interpersonal relationships, which can contribute to the genesis of psychiatric disturbance.” Conversely, spirituality can help address various mental health issues (e.g., poor self-esteem, low confidence, lack of self-control, fear of daily tasks, etc.), lending it to be a useful extension to mental health treatment plans. Leading expert in the psychology of religion and spirituality, Kenneth I. Pargament, PhD., refers to “Empirical studies of many groups dealing with major life stressors such as natural disaster, illness, loss of loved ones, divorce and serious mental illness show that religion and spirituality are generally helpful to people in coping, especially people with the fewest resources facing the most uncontrollable of problems.” Spiritual exercises, as asserted by McLean Hospital, can help people increase acceptance, decrease negative emotions, find meaning, and deepen their relationships with others. Spirituality incorporates healthy practices for the mind and body, which can yield an array of positive mental health benefits.

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How To Overcome Negative Body Image In Eating Disorder Recovery

Eating disorders are complex psychological conditions that are characterized by abnormal, irregular eating habits, and an extreme concern with one’s body weight or shape. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) specifically defines eating disorders as “serious medical illnesses marked by severe disturbances to a person’s eating behavior.” There are different types of eating disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) under the Disorder Class: Feeding and Eating Disorders. Eating disorders often involve intense self-criticism, body dissatisfaction, and perfectionism. While everyone experiences negative thoughts or feeling about their body from time to time, overcoming negative body image and thoughts related to eating disorders can be a particularly challenging process. Body image refers to how an individual perceives, thinks, and feels about his or her own body. The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) highlights various suggestions that can help you work toward a more positive body image:

Be kind to yourself: Practicing positive self-talk, for example, encourages self-confidence, effective coping, achievement, and a general feeling of well-being. Select a few affirmations, or positive statements about your body and repeat them regularly. Avoid self-criticism, treat yourself with respect, and shift your internal dialogue to replace negative self-talk with more positive and realistic statements.
Wear comfortable clothes: Tight or restrictive clothing can exacerbate negative body image thoughts. When you are already feeling particularly self-conscious about various areas of your body, alleviate any added anxiety by wearing clothing that is comfortable.
Strengthen social connections: Build a healthy support network that includes people who understand and support your journey towards a healthier body image. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can help reinforce a healthier mindset.
Make time for self-care: Self-care encompasses activities, practices, and habits intended to reduce mental and physical stress and strain while simultaneously fostering feelings of inner peace and happiness. Engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
Get rid of your scale: Recovering from an eating disorder will likely involve weight changes. While knowing your weight can be a great exposure therapy tool, having a scale at your constant disposal can sometimes be a distraction from your long-term recovery goals.

Body acceptance and neutrality are difficult concepts for everyone, and especially challenging for those who have a history of an eating disorder. It is essential to be patient and have compassion for yourself, as overcoming negative body image in eating disorder recovery is a crucial aspect of the healing process.

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The Connection Between Anxiety and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic and debilitating functional gastrointestinal disorder that is characterized by abdominal discomfort associated with altered bowel movements. IBS is highly common and is said to affect 9%-23% of the population across the world. Although the symptoms of IBS vary, according to Cleveland Clinic, some of the most common symptoms include the following:

Abdominal pain or cramps, usually in the lower half of the abdomen.
Bloating.
Bowel movements that are harder or looser than usual.
Diarrhea, constipation or alternating between the two.
Excess gas.
Mucus in stool (may appear whitish).
Incomplete bowel movements.

Recent research has shown that “many symptoms of IBS are related to hypersensitivity of the nerves found in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract.” Anxiety and digestive problems often go hand in hand. These two conditions are closely connected, and they often interact in a bidirectional manner:

Studies have found that higher anxiety can trigger more severe IBS symptoms.
One report suggests that the connection may be due to shared genetic pathways between IBS and anxiety.
Chronic stress and anxiety may cause a decrease in blood flow and oxygen to the stomach and contribute to low-level inflammation in the body. This may affect the gut lining and exacerbate IBS symptoms.
The mind and the gut are closely intertwined in what experts call the gut-brain axis, which is essentially a two-way signaling system between one’s brain and digestive tract. Anxiety and other emotional factors can influence gut function and vice versa. As explained in Impact of Psychological Stress on Irritable Bowel Syndrome, “Stress-induced alterations in neuro-endocrine-immune pathways acts on the gut-brain axis and microbiota-gut-brain axis, and cause symptom flare-ups or exaggeration in IBS.” Hence, changes in gut function can lead to alterations in mood, creating a feedback loop.

It is highly common for IBS and anxiety to co-occur as data indicates that nearly 40% of IBS patients also suffer from an anxiety disorder. While anxiety does not cause IBS, nor does IBS cause anxiety, the two disorders are known to exacerbate each other, leading to what’s often described as gastrointestinal-specific anxiety (GSA). Understanding the connections between anxiety and IBS can inform treatment protocol. IBS is a stress-sensitive disorder and effective treatment for IBS should focus on managing stress and stress-induced responses.

The Connection Between Anxiety and Migraines

Treatment In Calabasas

The Impact of Anxiety on Your Social Life

The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation for BPD

Mindfulness Meditation

The Connection Between Anxiety and Heart Health

Treatment In Calabasas

The Role of Art Therapy in Eating Disorder Recovery

The Connection Between Anxiety and ADHD

Treatment In Calabasas

The Impact of Anxiety on Your Career

The Role of Spirituality in Mental Health

Treatment In Calabasas

How To Overcome Negative Body Image In Eating Disorder Recovery

Treatment In Calabasas

The Connection Between Anxiety and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Treatment In Calabasas

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